Rainlegs Wind and waterproof leg covers

Rainlegs wind and waterproof leg covers are a quirky, yet surprisingly effective solutions to the problem of keeping the upper legs dry during those unpredictable spring showers without resorting to full-blown over-trousers.

Arguably best suited to short-ish commutes aboard well-dressed tourers and hybrids, their open backed apron design isn't much cop on pared to the essentials road/fixers since trouser backs, not to mention posteriors can still get a soaking and a bit of care's needed when performing double-quick dismounts in slow moving traffic. That said, they pack down remarkably small, weigh next to nothing and don't flatter noisily in the breeze like a builder's tarpaulin.

In a word association game the phrase 'Multi activity' gets the response 'compromise' from me but such is the simplicity of the design that compromises are kept to a minimum despite having horse-riders and walkers among their target audience. Supposedly made from a proofed nylon common to parachutes, they've a texture comparable with better quality race capes. Our samples were good old-fashioned goes-with-anything black but there's a choice of grey, fluorescent yellow, white, 'pure' white (which is transparent in my book) and camouflage for true urban warriors. Sizes range from extra small to extra large but getting this bang-on is crucial for comfort and turning a decent cadence. Large were perfect for my thirty-three inch inseam and I met a rider who said medium were fine for her 5'7 frame but since some of us will have proportionally longer/shorter thighs, its worth trying a set or two for size first.

They're ready for duty in 30 seconds flat-straight from their dedicated belt-mount pouch but no matter how polished your snatch and throw wind/rain jacket technique, this isn't the sort of manoeuvre to be practiced on the fly. A series of elasticated adjustable ties hold everything in situ at the waist, thigh and just below the articulated knees. Thoughtfully, these incorporate reflective piping, which seems really visible at moderate (town typical) cadences between 60 and 85rpm.

Predictably, they've laughed at squally showers and stiff March winds, rain simply beads and rolls harmlessly to asphalt, denim and similar cotton trousers remaining bone dry. Pairing them with 3/4lengths can, result in wet feet since water has a tendency to drip from the bottoms and sneak past the tongue bellows of street styled sneakers. Replicating these conditions aboard my Il Pompino confirmed steady cadences of 90-odd rpm are easily and comfortably sustainable-even on moderate 15 mile commutes. However, clammy sensations crept in after about an hour, which might prove very unwelcome on a mild, wet summer tour.

Verdict

Surprisingly effective and extremely portable weather protection best suited to shorter distances and bikes with full-length mudguards.